Guide To Dressing In Your 50s

01/04/2018

By the time you reach your 50s, you’re a force to be reckoned with. You know your mind, you’ve figured out what works for you, and it’s finally time to put yourself first — whether that means focusing on your career, your hobbies, or learning something entirely new. Here are a few tips on how to own your style and dress for the fun events, weddings, and weekends ahead.

5 RULES OF DRESSING IN YOUR 50S

1. Embrace color

While shades of grey can come across as matronly, bright and bold color will rev up your look and perk up your skin tone. Even better if you can play it off your signature shade of red lipstick (a must for women in their 50s). Experiment with non-classic hues like turquoise, burnt orange, and salmon for a modern, sophisticated edge.

2. Free your neckline

Swap the deep plunge in favor of a universally flattering boatneck. Your collarbone is a powerhouse feature worth showing off, and as an added bonus, this style has an elongating effect on the neck. A good rule of thumb is to play up places you dab perfume, like your wrists, forearms, and collar.

3. Upgrade your knits

Go ahead and splurge on your dream knits and sweaters. You’ve earned it. We’re talking silk, cashmere, and super soft cotton (preferably with a little stretch). Start working synthetics out of rotation and opt for fewer, more luxurious basics to elevate your everyday look. As with anything that fits perfectly, if you love it, buy it in a few different colors.

4. Play up your waistline

Slightly shorter tops that hit between the waist and top of your hip can create a slimming silhouette that showcases your natural curve. If your midsection isn’t your favorite, choose a higher rise pant to smooth and lengthen.

5. Find your fit

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: Nothing beats great tailoring. The difference between sophisticated and sloppy is all about the fit. Choose items with some structure over loose-fitting, baggy, or overly breezy styles. Fitted tops, ankle-fit trousers, and a great blazer should hang in every 50-something’s closet.

ITEMS TO GRAVITATE TOWARDS IN YOUR 50S

Investing in a few key pieces will extend your wardrobe and help define your iconic personal style. For women in their 50s, it’s all about subtlety and strength — choosing where to draw the eye, and when to demand attention.

Something red

A power decade deserves a power color. Find the right hue for your skin tone and time of year, and have some fun. A small accessory like a neck sash can be a fun way to punch up your look. Or, go bold with a red coat or dress for maximum impact.

A statement ring

Think of this as a gift to yourself. Whether it’s an oversized, chunky turquoise ring or a showstopping cocktail cluster, whatever you choose should make you feel fabulous and special. Dressed up, a statement ring is a conversation piece. Dressed down, it’s a great way to add some glam to a classic everyday look.

Investment shoes

By this point, you may want to lower the heel height some, but this is no time to phone in the footwear. In fact, your shoes may just become the starting point for your outfit. Dressy boots, a brightly colored pump, or even some designer flats can do wonders for an otherwise forgettable look.

Comfortable pieces

As the old saying goes, you don’t get points for suffering. Looking great doesn’t have to be uncomfortable, even when you’re dressed to the nines. Choose soft fabrics with stretch, waistlines with give, and silhouettes made to move.

A flattering go-to dress

Over the years, you’ve explored plenty of trends and no doubt purchased some one-time-only dresses for special occasions. In your 50s, make sure you have at least one trusty go-anywhere, do-anything dress that fits like a dream. With a busy social calendar of weddings, family celebrations, and special dates, it’s worth investing in a dress (or three) that you love.

DONATE THESE ITEMS BEFORE YOUR 50S

As we embrace the now and what’s next, there just isn’t room for some of the styles of yesteryear. Here are a few items that are taking up too much space in your closet, and not serving you well.